On Monday, it was reported by PUNCH Sports Extra that Nojim Maiyegun, Nigeria’s inaugural Olympic medallist, passed away at the age of 85.
Making history by claiming a bronze medal at the 1964 Tokyo Olympics, the former boxer died in Vienna, Austria, where he had been living for several years post his relocation from Nigeria.
Various sources have confirmed that Maiyegun succumbed to natural causes after a six-month period of in-and-out hospital stays.
Having been visually impaired for many years, his condition had reportedly deteriorated leading up to his demise.
Stephen Ogboh, a Nigerian acquaintance residing in Austria, verified the news of his passing to Sports Village Square.
Maiyegun’s death occurred shortly after the 60th anniversary of his historic accomplishment on August 10, 1964, when he clinched Nigeria’s maiden Olympic medal.
Competing in the light middleweight division, Maiyegun shared the bronze medal with Józef Grzesiak from Poland after both fighters lost in the semifinals. As per Olympic tradition, both semi-finalists receive a bronze medal since there is no playoff for third place.
His breakthrough in Tokyo ended Nigeria’s 12-year Olympic medal drought, following the country’s debut at the Helsinki 1952 Games.
Maiyegun’s achievement paved the way for subsequent Nigerian successes on the global Olympic stage, with the country going on to secure three silver and two more bronze medals in future editions.
The passing of this trailblazing athlete is a significant loss to the Nigerian sports community, as his legacy continues to be a lasting source of national pride.